GLAAD banks on Banks, Orman

'Top Model' host, finance expert honored

Tyra Banks and Suze Orman were among the honorees Sunday at the 20th annual GLAAD Media Awards in New York.

Banks, host of syndicated talker “The Tyra Banks Show” and the CW reality series “America’s Next Top Model,” was presented the Excellence in Media Award, which goes to individuals who, through their work, have increased the visibility and understanding of the gay and lesbian community.

Orman, the personal finance expert and host of “The Suze Orman Show” on CNBC, was presented with the Vito Russo Award, which goes to an openly gay, bisexual or transgender media professional who has made a significant difference in promoting equal rights for the LGBT community.

Also, Phil Donahue, who was the honoree at the first GLAAD Media Awards in 1990, was on hand to accept the Special Recognition Award.

The winner in film (limited release) was a tie between “Noah’s Arc: Jumping the Broom” (Logo Features/New Open Door Prods.) and “Shelter” (Regent Releasing). “A Jihad for Love” (First Run Features) took home the prize for documentary.

At the event, GLAAD also unveiled its new statuette. The group worked with David Moritz at Society Awards to create the trophy, the first redesign of the statuette since the show’s inception.

Additional awards will be presented in Los Angeles on April 18 and in San Francisco on May 9.